CONTINUING attempts are being made by Argyll and Bute Council to sell Blairvadach house and grounds at Shandon.

The eight hectare site, incorporating the category B listed building which formerly housed the local authority’s planning, building control and estates staff, is described as “a unique development opportunity for more than 100 new homes”.

Previous attempts to sell the site, which has been on the market for over a year, reached as far as a preferred bidder being appointed.

However, earlier this year the council decided that final terms submitted by the developer were unacceptable.

The council had concerns about the proposed mix of housing, restoration of the listed building, development strategy and land value.

Councillors were told in a recent report that the property is fairly challenging to develop due to the sloping topography, the presence of the listed building, and the large number of units involved.

The report, for the last meeting of the council’s Helensburgh and Lomond area committee, stated: “In July final terms were submitted by the developer and they were considered to be unacceptable to the council.

“Officers are currently considering alternative options for the site which may include a further remarketing exercise.

“There has been some evidence that previous bidders and new developers would submit proposals if remarketed.

“A new vehicle barrier has also been installed at the entrance to the car park at Blairvadach to deter unauthorised access to the site.”

The council’s website indicates that expressions of interest are being sought from prospective purchasers and gives details on how potential developers can submit their details.

Council staff who worked at Blairvadach are now based in the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre.